WEST Coast star Andrew Gaff says he isn't reflecting "too much" about his premiership heartbreak heading into this season's finals campaign.
This time last year, Gaff was sidelined by his eight-week suspension for striking Andrew Brayshaw and watched on as the Eagles snared their fourth flag.
His father, Paul, was also recovering from heart surgery, and the health scare gave Gaff a major dose of perspective, while he was also weighing up a monster contract from North Melbourne.
Gaff and Brayshaw shake hands during their pre-season encounter. Picture: AFL Photos
With his dad "really good" now, Gaff's focus is squarely on the looming elimination final against Essendon, and not what might have been in 2018.
"I've moved on. This is a new season," Gaff said.
"It might have been different if I hadn't played too many finals in the past, but been very fortunate ever since I started in 2011, we got to a prelim then, and I've been very fortunate to play in quite a few finals.
"You don't take it for granted, but I'm excited to get on with it on Thursday night, hopefully play well and contribute to the team winning."
Gaff was this week nominated for the Virgin Australia AFL All Australian squad after making the team for the second time last year.
He averaged a career-high 31.9 disposals in 20 games this season, having returned from his ban in the round three Grand Final rematch with Collingwood.
"No doubt a tough time (last year) but footy moves on and I've had to focus on things I've needed to improve on football-wise, and I think I've done that reasonably well this year," Gaff said.
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Some have questioned the Eagles' desire after their dismal loss to Hawthorn cost them a top-four spot.
But Gaff, one of the best against the Hawks, insisted the group was as hungry as ever.
The Eagles should be buoyed by Nic Naitanui's comeback for the Bombers clash, with the star ruckman, Brad Sheppard and Gaff – plus a host of youngsters - desperate to become premiership players.
"It'll be huge. I think 'Simmo' (coach Adam Simpson) said he's like our Patrick Dangerfield and he is one of our most valuable players," Gaff said.
"We all walk a bit taller with Nic, he's such a presence out there and his impact is so much more than ruck taps or disposals.
"He's so popular within the group and we want to see him not just get back and play consistent football, but play really good successful finals football." - Andrew Gaff
Meanwhile, Gaff confirmed a report he had out clauses in his six-year contract if he wanted to return to Melbourne to be closer to family, but planned to see the deal through at West Coast.
"I've really enjoyed this year and I've loved playing at this footy club and looking forward to continuing to do so," he said.
"I love being in Perth. It's an exciting time to be a player, but also an exciting time to be a supporter of the club."
